Panepinto announces induction of Roustum into State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

Submitted

Thu, May 21st 2015 01:20 pm

American
hero killed in action recognized as a 2015 inductee

State
Sen. Marc Panepinto announced Army Sgt. David Lawrence Roustum, killed in
action while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was inducted into the New York
State Senate Hall of Fame.

"Sgt.
Roustum is a true American hero," Panepinto said. "A distinguished and
decorated leader at a young age, he refused to run in the face of danger, and
selflessly protected the freedoms he pledged to uphold. His dedication to his
country and fellow soldiers was unwavering. Sgt. Roustum made the ultimate
sacrifice. He exemplifies what it means to be a soldier. I am honored to be
able to share that legacy with all of New York state."

The
New York State Senate Hall of Fame was created in 2005 to recognize and honor
outstanding veterans. Roustum was honored and his picture placed in an exhibit
alongside other 2015 inductees from each State Senate district in a ceremony in
Albany Tuesday.

Roustum,
22, was killed in action Nov. 20 when his armored Humvee was attacked by enemy
forces using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire while serving in
Baghdad, Iraq. Roustum was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and assigned to the
Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, and attached to
the 1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas.

Roustum
received the Bronze Star with V, two Army Commendation Medals for previous
actions, the Purple Heart, and the coveted Combat Infantry badge.

Roustum
was unmarried and had no children when he was killed in action. He was survived
by his mother, Jennifer; his father, Russ; a brother; and two nieces and a
nephew.